I had high hopes for this purchase but this balm did not work for me. It melts nicely, is a nice consistency and applies well. You don't need much. Works like a good quality oil - overall has a reasonably hydrating effect. However, it is not soothing. In fact it irritated a dry patch of skin around my chin. Its OK if I avoid that but its really nothing special, which at this price you are hoping for. The May Lindstrom blue cocoon balm does the job much better on my skin with zero irritation.

Been using the balm for 2 weeks now at night and loving it! The scent is heavenly and the balm really does melt into an easy to absorb oil. I use it as my last facial product over my moisturiser. A little goes a long way. My skin used to be oily with breakouts bit now it's settled since changing my skincare regime; this African Botanics balm has not caused any issues with oiliness. I plan on starting to use retinoids so definitely will use the balm to soothe/prevent any dryness or irritation.

Just finished a review of the AB cleansing oil (highly recommend). I was on the wait list for the intense facial balm and I've never been so ridiculously excited in the wait for a product. Thank you Cult Beauty for the comprehensive ingredient list as it makes a huge difference in the decision making process. So, the balm arrived yesterday and I've used twice - last night before bed, and early evening today after my post-work cleanse. Balm is not as solid as most I've seen/tried and is a pale brown colour (looks a bit like chocolate orange mousse). A small amount does indeed transform into a serum between fingertips, and the best bit, you really can apply this as a full-face moisturiser, including the eye orbit. Feels beautiful actually. After my early evening use I can confirm your skin (mine is 48, and feeling dehydrated at the end of winter) really drinks it. Not your usual balm in that respect. I can confirm zero eye irritation or puffiness after the overnight use, and I have a severe dry eye condition which means mine are super-sensitive. I'm loving this, I'm loving African Botanics. This is going to be a hero product for me. Pricey I know, but right now I'm not begrudging the spend one bit.